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Cholesterol-lowering drugs, especially statins, are the go to prescription for most doctors to reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels thus lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke. It is important to pay attention to any of the medications as they have potential side effects that may impact health and energy levels.
In this article, we delve into the risks of cholesterol-lowering medicines and explore better alternatives through talks of Diet and Fitness.
Statins work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase in the liver that plays a vital role for cholesterol production. This helps to decrease in LDL cholesterol and lessen the risk for heart attacks and strokes. Statins also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to benefit the heart and blood vessels.
However, it does not come with without potential costs. t Common side effects may include:
One of the most notable side effects of statins is lower energy levels manifested as general fatigue, lethargy, and lack of motivation. Many studies show that statins may reduce levels of Coenzyme Q10, a coenzyme that is essential for mitochondrial energy production as discovered by Dr Peter Mitchell in 1978. Dr Mitchell received a Nobel prize for his work on CoQ10 and energy production. Further research by Dr. Karl Folkers, known as the Father of CoQ10, showed that lower CoQ10 levels can impair muscle function and energy metabolism, leading to less energy. Dr Folkers’ work was continued by Dr Bill Judy who did several absorption studies to discover the best forms of CoQ10.
CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) plays an important role in potential side effects associated with statins ie muscle pain and muscle damage. Here’s how CoQ10 may help:
Statins reduce CoQ10 levels: Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, that is involved in cholesterol synthesis. This same enzyme is also required for the metabolism of CoQ10 in the body. As a result, statins could lead to reduced levels of CoQ10 in the blood and muscle that affect their optimal function
CoQ10 is essential for muscle function: CoQ10 is a vital cofactor in the mitochondria of every cell in the body and how energy is disposed. It does this by playing a role in the electron transport chain that generates ATP (cellular energy currency). Due to the fact that muscles use a lot of energy, it is vital to boost CoQ10 levels for optimal function
CoQ10 deficiency may contribute to myopathy: The reduction in CoQ10 levels caused by statins may impair mitochondrial energy production that leads to muscle fatigue, weakness, and potential muscle damage. Some studies have found lower muscle CoQ10 levels in patients who experience statin-induced myopathy.
CoQ10 supplementation may alleviate muscle symptoms: Some studies suggest that CoQ10 supplementation may help alleviate muscle pain, weakness, and fatigue associated with statin use.
However, it’s important to note that the relationship between CoQ10 deficiency and statin-induced myopathy is not conclusive. Overall, while the exact mechanisms are not fully understood. More research is needed to clarify the relationship and determine the clinical value of CoQ10 supplementation in reducing the effects of statins.
In rare cases, statins may cause even more severe side effects, including:
Patients who may experience extreme fatigue or any other side effects should always consult their healthcare provider. Possible mitigation strategies may include:
Adjusting statin dosage, changing the brand of statin or other cholesterol-lowering medication
It would also be advisable to supplement daily with at least 30 mg of highly absorbant CoQ10 shown to have potential in alleviating fatigue in some studies.
Lifestyle changes like a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management helps to control cholesterol levels naturally
Soluble Fiber Intake: Foods high in soluble fiber may help prevent cholesterol absorption in the digestive tract. IE oats, barley, beans, lentils, fruits like apples, pears, and citrus fruits, and vegetables like eggplant and okra
Healthy Fats: Use oils like olive, and coconut oil instead of butter or lard. Stay away from margarine and other seed oils. Plus reduce red meat and dairy products consumption.
Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables can increase cholesterol-lowering compounds like plant sterols
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like wild salmon and fresh water trout can help lower triglycerides and may improve HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Nuts and Seeds: Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are great for heart health and may help to lower LDL cholesterol. Plus they are also a good source of fiber and healthy fat.
Plant Sterols and Stanols: These compounds can be found in fortified foods and supplements. They help to block cholesterol absorption.
Take a highly absorbing CoQ10 Supplement to maintain a healthy heart
Statins may be effective at lowering cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk, but they may come with some risks. Patients should speak with their healthcare specialists to manage the adverse effects, adopt healthier habits, and consider including health natural foods into their diet for greater well-being.
References:
https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-coq10-supplements-7565538
https://www.verywellhealth.com/best-coq10-supplements-7565538
https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/coq10-ubiquinol-supplements-review/coq10/
https://www.consumerlab.com/news/best-coq10-ubiquinol-supplements-2024/04-11-2024/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coq10-and-statins
https://www.healthline.com/health/coq10-and-statins
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9495827/
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.118.009835
https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-coenzymeq10-coq10
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-foods-that-lower-cholesterol-levels
https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/ss/slideshow-cholesterol-lowering-foods
https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/10-foods-to-lower-cholesterol
https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/5-foods-that-can-lower-your-cholesterol-naturally
https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/high-cholesterol-alternative-therapies
https://medlineplus.gov/howtolowercholesterolwithdiet.html
https://familydoctor.org/lifestyle-changes-improve-cholesterol/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/11-foods-that-lower-cholesterol
https://www.verywellhealth.com/remedies-for-high-cholesterol-89629https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/high-cholesterol/supplements-to-lower-cholesterol
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16867-cholesterol–nutrition-tlc
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/TLC-Therapeutic-Lifestyle-Changes-Lower-Cholesterol
https://www.healthline.com/health/high-cholesterol/natural-cholesterol-reducers
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/prevention-and-treatment-of-high-cholesterol-hyperlipidemia
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